Depression
Meta-analysis strengthens link between depression and inflammation
Source: molekuul.be/Shutterstock
The anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib (pictured) could play a role as an antidepressant, research suggests
There is compelling evidence of a link between inflammation and depression, and several studies have reported an antidepressant effect of anti-inflammatory drugs. This concept is strengthened by a meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry[1] (online, 15 October 2014) that included 14 trials and 6,262 patients treated with either non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or cytokine inhibitors.
The pooled effect estimate suggested that anti-inflammatory treatment reduced depressive symptoms compared with placebo, in both patients with depression and those with depressive symptoms. The strongest effect size was seen with celecoxib, with odds ratios of 7.89 for remission (95% confidence interval 2.94 to 21.17) and 6.59 for response (95% CI 2.24 to 19.42). There was no increase in adverse effects.
All trials were associated with a high risk of bias but this study supports a proof of concept, say Ole Kohler, from Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, and colleagues.
Citation: The Pharmaceutical Journal DOI: 10.1211/PJ.2014.20066946
Recommended from Pharmaceutical Press
- Previous
- Next
Drugs in Use
Optimise drug therapy for your patients. These case studies help you bridge the gap between theoretical medicines knowledge and practical applications.
£43.00Buy now
Minor Illness or Major Disease
This established textbook helps you differentiate between minor illnesses which can be safely managed in the pharmacy, and major diseases.
£43.00Buy now
Print 
PDF
Have your say
For commenting, please login or register as a user and agree to our Community Guidelines. You will be re-directed back to this page where you will have the ability to comment.